How to use this calculator
- Enter or choose units.
- Enter or choose cut-off.
- The healthy weight range updates as you type. Use Copy result or Share to keep it.
Method
Lower = 18.5 × height (m)²; Upper = 24.9 × height (m)² (or 22.9 × height² with the Asian action point)
- height (m)
- standing height in metres
- 18.5, 24.9
- WHO adult BMI limits of the normal range
- 22.9
- just under the WHO public-health action point of 23 for Asian populations
Worked example
- Height² = 1.75² = 3.0625 m².
- Lower limit = 18.5 × 3.0625 = 56.7 kg; upper = 24.9 × 3.0625 = 76.3 kg.
- BMI now = 80 ÷ 3.0625 = 26.1, which is 80 − 76.26 = 3.7 kg above the range.
At 175 cm the healthy weight range is 56.7–76.3 kg; at 80 kg you are about 3.7 kg above it.
What the result means
Anywhere in the range is consistent with a healthy BMI; there is no single right weight. If you are above the range, even modest weight loss can bring health benefits. BMI does not separate muscle from fat, so very muscular people can sit above the range while healthy.
Assumptions and limits
- Adults aged 18 or over, not pregnant.
- WHO adult BMI categories; the Asian option uses the WHO expert consultation (2004) action point of 23.
- BMI is a screening measure and can misclassify athletes and older adults.
- National guidance for specific ethnic groups varies; check your local health service’s advice.
Questions
Why is there an Asian option?
A WHO expert consultation found that many Asian populations have higher risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease at lower BMIs, and proposed 23 as an extra public-health action point.
Should children use this?
No. Children and teenagers need BMI-for-age percentiles from growth charts.
Sources
Please note: This is a general screening estimate for adults, not medical advice or a diagnosis. Talk to a qualified health professional about your health.